Fire Crews Warn Drivers About Flood Water

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is warning motorists about the dangers of driving through flood water, following six separate incidents in one morning - where people became trapped after attempting to drive through a ford or other flooding.

The Service is once again urging residents to not attempt to drive through flooded roads or fords as the water is often deeper than it looks and may be moving quite fast.

Fire crews were alerted to six separate incidents between 6am and 11 am on Sunday 4th November 2011, where people had become stuck in their cars in flood water. Four of these incidents were in the New Forest area.

Head of Response Delivery Andy Bowers says:

“Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service will continue do its upmost to warn motorists of the risks of driving into deep water.

“Your vehicle may be swept away or become stranded. Vehicles can float away in just two feet of water. If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately if safe to do so and seek higher ground. Do not travel in heavy rain storms unless absolutely necessary.”

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service would like to highlight the below guidelines:

• Avoid entering any river fords during or after periods of rainfall;

• Always pay attention to warning devices, such as depth gauges;

• If in doubt, DO NOT enter the water in a vehicle or on foot;

• If water is safe to enter, always test your vehicle breaks on exiting;

• Motorists should slow down, cross in lower gears and keep revs up to maintain pressure in the exhaust to prevent water getting into the engine.